5 adventures in Scotland for the outdoor enthusiastic

Scotland is one of Europe’s wildest terrains. From the raging waves pounding the North Sea coastline, to the impressive lochs scattered over the Highlands and the hundreds of Munros waiting to be climbed, Scotland is a destination for the outdoor enthusiastic. Here are five adventures you can’t miss when in Scotland.

1. Hike the West Highland Way

The West Highland Way is Scotland’s first long distance hiking trail. It runs from Milngavie, close to Glasgow, towards Fort William at the base of Ben Nevis. The full trail is about 156 km long with many hikers taking five to nine days to complete it. If you want the true Scottish experience, try hiking it in a kilt. We did!

How long? 5-9 days

How tough? Easy. Can be a great first experience with long distance trails.

Where to start? Glasgow

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2. Climb Britain’s highest peak

If you love hiking – and you’ve already completed the West Highland Way – Ben Nevis should be on your list. There is a saying in Scotland that for the novice or non-serious hiker, once this peak is achieved you can sit back and hang up your hiking boots knowing that you have beaten the ultimate walk. Ben Nevis is also one of the mountains to conquer during the Three Peaks Challenge.

How long? 8-10 hours

How tough? Moderate.

Where to start? Fort William

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3. Bag seven Munros in a day

There are – arguably – 284 ‘Munros’ (peaks above 3,000ft) in Scotland. Seven of them are on one long ridge above Glen Shiel in Kintail, making it an interesting feat for Munro-baggers. It’s a steep climb to the top of the first Munro, Creag a’ Mhaim, and then a traverse over six more peaks back to the glen.

How long? 1 day

How tough? Moderate.

Where to start? Kintail

4. Paddle the Scottisch lochs

Most tourists take a boat cruise on the Scottish lochs, but if you have an adventurous spirit, you will want to paddle them. The Great Glen Canoe trail is a multi-day paddle journey across five different lochs, including the famous Loch Ness. Just make sure you don’t capsize by the tail of Nessie.

How long? 3-5 days

How tough? Hard

Where to start? Fort William / Banavie

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5. Climb the Black Cuillins, Isle of Skye

The view of the Cuillin Mountains on Skye seen from Elgol is one of Britain’s finest. You can walk to Loch Coruisk in a deep gash in the mountains. If the mountains are calling, you could hire a guide and head for that jagged skyline.

How long? 2 days

How tough? Strenuous hike

Where to start? Elgol

With our adventure e-guides, you have all information you need to plan these adventures in your pocket. Our guides are easily downloaded to your smartphone so it’s always in your reach.